Belagavi Rural Police have registered a case against seven people, including Maharashtra-based Hindutva leader Harshita Thakur, for allegedly making provocative gestures and delivering inflammatory speeches during a procession held ahead of the Akhanda Hindu Sammelana in Machhe village near Belagavi on Sunday (January 18).
The case was filed based on a complaint lodged by Abdul Khader Mujawar, a resident of Ansari Galli in Peeranwadi. He alleged that the accused hurt religious sentiments and created communal tension through their conduct during the rally.
According to the complaint, a procession was taken out as part of the Akhanda Hindu Sammelana and was passing through Peeranwadi on the Belagavi–Khanapur road. During this time, Harshita Thakur was standing atop an open vehicle. When the vehicle reached near the Ansari Dargah, it was allegedly stopped, and she made repeated hand gestures as if shooting an arrow towards the dargah. Her supporters were seen clapping, and slogans of “Jai Shri Ram” were reportedly raised.
The complainant further stated that provocative and hate-filled speeches were made during the gathering, which had the potential to incite communal unrest and disturb public peace. It was also alleged that illegal banners related to the procession had been put up near the dargah without permission, adding to tensions in the area.
A video of the incident went viral, following which police rushed to the spot and brought the situation under control.
Apart from Harshita Thakur, those booked include Supreet Simpi, Shrikant Kamble, Bettappa Tarihal, Shivaji Shahapurkar, Gangaram Tarihal and Mallappa, who are described as organisers or participants linked to the event.
Police have registered the case at the rural police station under relevant legal provisions, including Section 173 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Further investigation is underway, and police are collecting video footage and other material evidence.
To prevent any further disturbance, additional police personnel have been deployed in the Machhe–Peeranwadi area. Police officials have warned that strict action will be taken against anyone attempting to provoke religious sentiments or disrupt law and order.
